File photo dated 8/5/2015 of Ed Miliband, as reports that he is set to rule out a return to frontline politics were described as "speculation" by sources close to the former Labour leader. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Friday September 4, 2015. The Times said Mr Miliband was expected to say within days that he is planning to focus on campaigning as a backbench MP on inequality and environmental issues. See PA story POLITICS Miliband. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

Sarah Marshall

Doncaster North MP, Ed Miliband, is to quit front-bench politics, a source close to the former Labour party leader has claimed.

A national newspaper reported today that Mr Miliband was expected to say within days that he is planning to focus on campaigning as a backbench MP on inequality and environmental issues. The move would scotch hopes among some supporters of Labour leadership front-runner Jeremy Corbyn that he might take a senior role in the new frontbench team, providing reassurance to MPs concerned that Mr Corbyn will drag the party to the far left. The paper said Mr Miliband had told friends he needs a break from frontline politics after five years as leader and defeat in the general election in May. However a source close to the Doncaster North MP described the report as “all speculation”.

Trending

Yorkshire Day: 47 words and phrases you would only ever hear in Yorkshire